The Science Behind Our Botanicals
Published research on the plants inside every Arctic Organics formula.
We formulate with plants, not prescriptions. Below is a living library of published research on the botanicals inside our balms and scrubs. These studies explore the properties of each plant in the wider scientific literature; they are shared for education and are not claims that our products treat, prevent or cure any condition.
Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
One of the most-studied botanicals in our formulas, valued for its soothing and antioxidant properties.
- Topical calendula was associated with measurable anti-aging effects on skin.
- Supported the skin's resilience against everyday irritation.
- Linked to improved collagen synthesis and support against sun stress.
- A calendula formulation improved skin hydration and firmness; extract reduced inflammatory signalling in skin cells in vitro.
- Calendula flower extract's antioxidant compounds helped protect skin cells against oxidative stress.
- Helped preserve the skin's own antioxidant levels after UV exposure.
Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)
Prized for its rare Omega-7 content and its antioxidant, barrier-supporting fatty acids.
- Its unique fatty-acid profile is highly valued in cosmetics and skincare.
- Rich in flavonoids, carotenoids and Omega 3, 6, 9 and the rare Omega 7; studied for smoothing, rejuvenation and barrier support.
- Showed potential to support skin against visible aging by helping regulate moisture.
- An Omega-enriched sea buckthorn extract reduced skin dryness by supporting the skin's own hydration channels.
- Exceptionally high in both oil- and water-soluble antioxidants.
- Helped protect skin cells against UV-induced oxidative stress.
Rosehip (Rosa canina L.)
A classic botanical for radiance, elasticity and the look of scars and fine lines.
- In a randomised, double-blind trial, rosehip powder reduced the depth of crow's-feet, increased moisture and improved skin elasticity, thanks to its antioxidant, vitamin-C-rich profile.
- An 8-week double-blind study linked rosehip to improved crow's-feet wrinkles, skin moisture and elasticity.
- Antioxidant and soothing effects demonstrated across rose hip preparations.
- Rosehip oil supported skin recovery and improved the appearance of scars.
Damask Rose (Rosa damascena)
Damask rose adds a delicate botanical note along with antioxidant and skin-calming compounds.
Borage (Borago officinalis)
Borage seed oil is rich in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), an Omega-6 that supports calm, comfortable skin.
- Borage-oil GLA was associated with reduced inflammation in blemish-prone skin.
- Helped restore the skin's naturally acidic pH and the enzymes that support its barrier.
Beeswax (Cera Alba)
Beeswax gives our balms their structure while forming a breathable, protective layer on the skin.
- Several studies support topical beeswax in reinforcing the skin barrier.
- 98% of users rated a beeswax-containing moisturiser a "good" or "very good" experience.
Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
One of nature's most potent antioxidants, studied for its anti-aging and radiance-supporting compounds.
- Its antioxidant effects were linked to helping reduce the look of skin aging.
- Oral pomegranate was associated with reduced wrinkle severity and improvements across several skin measures.
- Helps protect the skin against oxidative stress and slow visible aging.
- Pomegranate supported the skin's own collagen (type I procollagen) while helping balance collagen-degrading enzymes.
Apricot Kernel (Prunus armeniaca)
Finely milled apricot kernel gently polishes away dull, dead surface skin in our face scrub.
Rice Flour (Oryza sativa)
A time-honoured botanical for gentle brightening and softness.
- Rice-derived ingredients are studied for anti-aging, soothing, brightening and moisturising effects, and are considered gentle, non-irritating and hypoallergenic.
- Rice starch has been recommended as a gentle, barrier-supporting additive for sensitive, easily irritated skin.
- Rice-derived peptides showed antioxidant activity and potential as a cosmetic ingredient.
- Rice-bran bioactive compounds demonstrated antioxidant activity and enhanced skin hydration.
Squalane
Squalane mirrors an oil our own skin makes: a featherlight moisturiser that absorbs without residue. The body's production slows after our thirties.
- A natural antioxidant and emollient that helps protect skin and lock in moisture without leaving oily residue.
- The body's squalane production slows sharply after age thirty, which can contribute to drier skin.
- After 8 weeks, squalane improved skin moisture and the look of wrinkles.
Argan (Argania spinosa L.)
Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids that support elasticity and a healthy barrier.
- Daily use and topical application had an anti-aging effect, improving skin elasticity.
- Argan oil significantly reduced water loss and improved the skin's hydration.
- Formulations using argan oil increased skin hydration in healthy volunteers.
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius)
The gentle, fast-absorbing base of many of our balms, rich in skin-loving linoleic acid.
- Safflower oil and its compound acacetin helped protect against UVB-driven collagen breakdown, suggesting anti-wrinkle potential.
- Safflower-seed extract is studied for brightening, anti-wrinkle and antioxidant benefits.
- Safflower improved skin condition and dermal thickness, likely by calming the skin's inflammatory response.
- 92% of subjects experienced more moisturised skin and fewer visible wrinkles within two weeks.
Frankincense (Boswellia)
Used for centuries and studied today for its soothing, calming properties on reactive skin.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.)
A powerful antioxidant that helps defend skin against daily environmental stress.
- Extensively studied for antioxidant benefits; improved skin elasticity, reinforced the barrier and reduced the look of wrinkles and dark spots.
- In 90 healthy participants, reduced UV-related skin changes and improved the look of wrinkles and elasticity.
- Wrinkle depth: decreased by 14.8% in 2 months
- Skin elasticity: increased by 9% in 2 months
Arnica (Arnica montana)
A traditional botanical for soothing, de-puffing and supporting stressed skin.
- Out of 380 plants screened, arnica flower extract performed best: after 4 weeks, 92% of participants noticed improved facial skin volume and smoother smile lines, with no adverse reactions reported.
- Arnica reduced the UVB-induced inflammatory response in skin.
- Arnica-based topicals supported skin recovery and improved the look of bruising in human volunteers.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Lends a fresh botanical note and is studied for its antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds.
Natural Vitamin E (tocopherol)
Skin's front-line antioxidant, protecting against the free radicals behind visible aging.
- A popular antioxidant that helps protect skin's collagen and glycosaminoglycans from reactive oxygen species.
- Alpha-tocopherol helps maintain the skin barrier and protect surface lipids from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin E is the major lipid-soluble antioxidant protecting skin from oxidative stress and photoaging.
- Topical alpha-tocopherol protected skin against UV-induced oxidative damage by boosting the skin's own antioxidant network.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender calms both skin and senses, with antibacterial and antioxidant compounds that suit blemish-prone, reactive skin.
- Lavender oil has an antibacterial effect that can be helpful for blemish-prone skin.
- Its main components, linalyl acetate and linalool, are antioxidants that scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
- Showed anti-inflammatory, calming activity applied topically.
- Lavender oil supported collagen synthesis and skin renewal in the early phases of repair.